Hwachae is a delicious Korean dessert that’s incredibly easy to make, as it requires no cooking. This refreshing treat, perfect for hot days, features a cocktail of fresh fruits in a blend of milk and Sprite. Hwachae is perfect for sharing and bringing to house parties.
Hwachae Origin
Hwachae, a treat dating back to the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897), was commonly enjoyed by Korean royalty. The name “hwachae” comes from the Korean words “hwa” (flower) and “chae” (fruit). Traditionally, hwachae was made with natural ingredients like edible flowers. Presently, it often features a mix of fruits, jellies, and other toppings in carbonated drinks like Sprite, Chilsung Cider, 7up, and more.
Hwachae Ingredients
- Watermelon: This is the main fruit for hwachae
- Fruits of your choice: I used blueberries and strawberries. You can use whatever you have at home.
- Strawberry Milk: You can use plain milk.
- Carbonated drinks of your choice: You can use sprite, Chilsung Cider (Korean “Sprite”,, 7-Up or other lemon-lime types of soda.
- Nata De Coco: This is a coconut gel and it adds a nice texture. This is also optional.
- Ice: You need ice to make it refreshing, especially on hot summer days.
- Optional: Add jellies.
Instructions
Cut a watermelon into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl.
Include additional fruits such as strawberries, grapes, or any of your favorites for more variety.
Add nata de coco for extra texture and flavor.
Add ice.
Pour in a combination of milk and a carbonated drink (like Sprite) for a creamy and fizzy base.
Alternatively, you can use only the carbonated drink if you prefer a lighter version.
Gently stir the mixture to combine all ingredients.
Serve immediately for a cool and refreshing treat.
Hwachae or Korean Watermelon Punch
Ingredients
- Watermelon
- Fruits of your choice:
- Strawberry Milk
- Carbonated drinks of your choice
- Nata De Coco
- Ice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add a generous amount of ice to keep it chill.
- Cut a watermelon into bite-sized pieces and add them to the bowl.
- Include additional fruits such as strawberries, grapes, or any of your favorites for more variety.
- Add nata de coco for extra texture and flavor.
- Pour in a combination of milk and a carbonated drink (like Sprite) for a creamy and fizzy base.
- Alternatively, you can use only the carbonated drink if you prefer a lighter version.
- Gently stir the mixture to combine all ingredients.
- Serve immediately for a cool and refreshing treat
If you enjoy this hwachae recipe, you might also enjoy this fruity mango sago recipe. It is also great for the summer.